Synopsis :

In response to the global fascination with its culture, propelled by the popularity of K-pop and K-dramas, South Korea is set to introduce two innovative visa programs in 2024 – the Workation Visa and the Hallyu Visa. These initiatives aim to attract a substantial influx of foreign tourists, positioning South Korea as a premier international tourist destination. Additionally, the country is implementing reforms to simplify travel, including foreign mobile payments, a traveler mobility app, and English versions of navigation systems, all geared towards offering a more accessible and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Details :

  1. South Korea’s Working Visa :

   South Korea has recently unveiled the Workation Visa, encouraging extended stays for foreign nationals. Unlike the 90-day limit on tourist visas, this visa allows visitors to stay for up to one year, blending work and travel experiences. To qualify, applicants need one year of work experience in their industry, affiliated with international companies. Families are eligible, with the exception of children turning 18 or older. Requirements include earning double South Korea’s gross national product, maintaining personal medical insurance, and securing home evacuation coverage exceeding 100 million won ($7,750) for emergencies. Workation visa holders are restricted from engaging in profit-making activities or working for local companies, necessitating a separate visa for such endeavors. Applications can be submitted at Korean Embassies, with the possibility of visa changes for those meeting necessary conditions.

  1. Hallyu Visa or K-Culture Training Visa :

   South Korea’s Hallyu Visa, also known as the K-Culture Training Visa, permits foreign individuals enrolled in cultural academies to stay for a maximum of two years. This visa targets individuals passionate about Korean culture, K-pop, and related fields, offering firsthand knowledge from experts in Korean music, drama, film, animation, and gaming industries. Unlike the E-6 visa, which mandates trainee contracts with Korean entertainment firms, the Hallyu visa simplifies the process by requiring applicants to register at approved Korean institutes under the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. This comprehensive training program provides insights into the inner workings of the Korean entertainment scene and content creation.

Stay connected with VisaBud to get the Latest updates on visa news!